According to the indictment, from July 2014 to April 2015, the defendants obtained personal information from victims through various methods. They allegedly used that information to create counterfeit access devices or used unauthorized access devices to obtain items of value in excess of $1,000.

The scheme involved using Target store account numbers to buy large amounts of electronics and other goods at Target locations throughout the Sacramento area, authorities said. The indictment also alleges that defendant Frank Her possessed device-making equipment with the intent to defraud.

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In all, the indictment alleges that at least 500 counterfeit and unauthorized access devices were possessed, used, produced or trafficked by members of the conspiracy. More than 2,200 victims have been identified as having their identities or mail compromised as part of the scheme, authorities said.

The case resulted from an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.